Germany expects an “arms race” in drone defence as threats evolve. The Federal Police is expanding its drone unit from 70 to 300 officers, after an explosive-laden drone was found at Leipzig airport earlier this month.
Germany has opened a new centre to develop and test technology for detecting and stopping hostile drones. The move follows a series of incidents as Berlin expands the Federal Police’s drone defence force to 300 officers nationwide.
Mercedes-Benz has announced a tie-up with drone start-up Tytan Technologies at the International Aerospace Exhibition in Berlin, the centrepiece of which is to be a drone defence system, for which the Stuttgart-based brand is to provide the carrier vehicles.
The UK Ministry of Defence has deployed the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System on RAF Typhoon fighter jets operating in the Middle East to counter drone threats. The laser-guided system completed testing and entered operational service within two months.
Rheinmetall and Deutsche Telekom plan to develop systems to detect and stop hostile drones and cyber threats. The project will combine telecom networks, sensors and laser-based technologies to protect key infrastructure.
The UK has tested its new Skyhammer interceptor missiles in Jordan to counter drone threats. The system, developed by Cambridge Aerospace, is part of a new defence contract, with deliveries to UK forces expected to begin in May.
The UK Ministry of Defence plans to acquire Skyhammer interceptor missiles from Cambridge Aerospace to counter drone threats, with deliveries expected from May. The system will also be supplied to Gulf partners under a multi-million pound agreement.
Rheinmetall and MBDA Germany plan to set up a joint venture in early 2026 to develop naval laser weapon systems. The move follows joint trials of a laser demonstrator tested at sea and is aimed at providing drone defence capabilities for the German Navy.
Germany has opened a new Joint Drone Defence Centre in Berlin, which becomes operational in January, brings together agencies to counter drone threats, with increasing sightings near airports, military sites and energy facilities.
Germany’s Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt warned of legal challenges to a bill expanding the Bundeswehr’s role in domestic drone defence after a surge in suspected Russian drone sightings. The plan would strengthen police capabilities and create a joint defence centre, but faces constitutional concerns over military involvement in internal security.
Germany plans to order over 600 Skyranger air defence systems from Rheinmetall in a deal worth more than €9 billion to strengthen its drone defence. The mobile system, now in testing, can be mounted on Boxer and Leopard 1 vehicles and is designed to counter modern aerial threats, including drone swarms.
